Downstairs in the kitchen, Myla was helping the housekeeper prepare dinner.

“You do not have to do this, Madame,” the housekeeper said, smiling as she watched Myla stir a pot of savory stew. “You should be resting with the masters.”

Myla laughed, wiping a stray bit of flour from her cheek. “I like being busy, Colette. It keeps my mind off the phone calls and the news. Besides, Jared needs something hearty if he is going to keep stubborn about his recovery.”

“Madame Colette,” ...